infatuation
UK: ɪnˌfætʃuˈeɪʃən | US: ɪnˌfætʃuˈeɪʃən
n. an intense but short-lived passion or admiration for someone or something
n. foolish or irrational obsession
infatuation = in<into> + fatu<foolish> + ation<noun suffix>
- in (Latin prefix meaning "into" or "against")
- fatu (from Latin fatuus, meaning "foolish" or "silly")
- ation (noun-forming suffix indicating a state or condition)
Etymology Origin:
The word "infatuation" traces back to the Latin infatuare, meaning "to make foolish." It combines in- (intensifying prefix) with fatuus (foolish), reflecting the idea of being "carried away" by irrational passion. Over time, it evolved in Middle English to describe a temporary, often illogical, emotional obsession.
Her infatuation with the actor faded after she met him in person.
Teenagers often mistake infatuation for true love.
His infatuation with vintage cars led him to spend all his savings.
The media fuels public infatuation with celebrity gossip.
She realized her infatuation was just a fleeting crush.